If you had asked me about my kids before the COVID-19 outbreak started, I would have told you that I had a good handle on their personalities. And I would have been dead wrong.
As it turns out, being forced to spend hours together in close quarters has helped me get a better understanding of my two teens. For instance, it turns out that they work harder, are more ambitious and are more concerned about their futures than I ever thought. They also have a lot of fond memories about the trips we’ve taken — even if they complained about them at the time. But perhaps the most important thing I’ve learned is that they actually enjoy spending time together as a family, and they are genuinely excited to talk about the places we might go once this crisis passes.
I’m sure I’m not alone in this realization — I guarantee families all over the country are also dreaming about the day when they can travel again and make new memories.
After Sept. 11, the industry saw huge growth in the family travel market and, in fact, that event forever changed the way people think about their vacations. Traveling stopped being a luxury for the few, and became an essential way for families to celebrate life together. After this crisis, advisors can expect a similar paradigm shift, as parents and kids enjoy a new appreciation for one another.
Travel advisors should prepare now by getting in touch with families and letting them know that it’s not too soon to talk about that dream trip. Family bonds are growing by the day, and even if the reason for the closeness is less than ideal, many parents are looking forward to sharing better days exploring the world together.
